GLENMORANGIE 12 YEARS OLD 46% QUINTA RUBAN

The Glenmorangie 12 Years Old Quinta Ruban stands as a superb testament to the craftsmanship and innovation embedded in the heart of Glenmorangie's distilling philosophy. Nestled in the Highlands of Scotland, Glenmorangie has long been revered for its expertise in creating some of the smoothest and most complex single malt whiskies in the world.

With a maturation period of 12 years, this particular expression, Quinta Ruban, undergoes a unique aging process that starts in traditional oak casks before being finished in specially selected Port casks from the Quintas, or wine estates, of Portugal. This method imparts the Scotch with an extraordinary richness and depth, embracing both the robustness of the oak and the subtle, sweet complexities of the Port.

The Distillery – Glenmorangie

Glenmorangie Distillery, renowned for its pursuit of perfection and dedication to craftsmanship, is situated in the Royal Burgh of Tain. Since its founding in the early 19th century, the distillery has been producing single malt Scotch whisky with a signature elegance and floral sophistication, largely attributable to Scotland's tallest stills which only allow the lightest and purest vapors to condense into spirit. The careful selection of casks for maturation ensures that each batch of whisky meets the distillery's exacting standards.

Age and Region

This 12-year-old whisky hails from the Highland region, known for whiskies that are generally more delicate and light in character, yet diverse in flavor. These whiskies often carry hints of heather, some peat, and a range of fruity and floral notes, all of which provide a perfect canvas for the additional layer of complexity added through the Port cask finish.

Bottling and Strength

Bottled by Glenmorangie themselves, ensuring continuity and preservation of the distillery’s desired profile, Quinta Ruban is presented at 46% alcohol by volume, a strength that allows it to retain its robust character and deep flavors without the need for dilution. Each bottle contains 70cl of this rich liquid.

Cask Finish – Port Cask Finish

The key defining characteristic of the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban is its finish in Port casks. After spending 10 years maturing in American White Oak bourbon barrels, the whisky is further aged for an additional two years in selected Port casks, which were previously used to age fine Portuguese wines. This stage allows the whisky to acquire a luxurious richness, seductive ruby color, and layers of flavors that hint at both spiced fruits and chocolate mint, making it distinctly indulgent and almost dessert-like.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban exudes a bouquet of dark mint chocolate, tangerines, and Seville oranges mixed with sandalwood and walnuts. Upon tasting, the velvety texture delivers a complex pallet of chocolate orange, almond, oranges, and sugar spices leading to a long, satisfying finish that lingers with notes of mint chocolate and a hint of nuts. This profile makes the Quinta Ruban not just a whisky for enjoyment, but an experience to savor, ideally suited to rounding off a special meal or as an accompaniment to contemplative moments.

In Summary

The Glenmorangie 12 Years Old Quinta Ruban is a splendid showcase of the distillery's innovative approach to whisky making, exemplifying how traditional Scotch whisky can be elevated through thoughtful cask finishing. For aficionados of fine whiskies, the Quinta Ruban offers both a distinctive and rewarding tasting journey, characterized by its deep, port-infused richness and intricate flavor profile. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents a stellar addition to any whisky cabinet.